Charred body of unidentified man found near Bengaluru
Bengalurus soulful date with Passenger
Parents gain insights at education expo in Bengaluru
3 held for robbery attempt in Bengaluru
Class 10 student fractures skull after stone hurled during Volleyball game in Bengaluru
Uniformed wrongdoing: Constable among 8 held for fake raid, kidnap in Karnataka
Karnataka high court raps state for holding teacher salaries for 1.5 years
MEI Layout in Bengaluru comes together for final edition of Happy Streets
Maize price drops drastically, causing distress to farmers
Joshi reacts to CMs letter on maize farmers
Replacing Siddaramaiah Could Spark Backlash, Warns Vatal Nagaraj
There is no leader in any party who matches Siddaramaiahs stature in Karnataka. If the high command attempts this, it will be like playing with fire
Teachers to protest against mandatory TET in New Delhi today
Kalaburagi DC directs relocation, vaccination of stray dogs & cattle as per SC order
Children present special music programme at KLE hospital
New AICC secretary Srinivas B.V. gets warm reception
Vijayendra apprises Amit Shah of political developments in Karnataka
Karnataka Groundwater Authority has only 2 geologists for Bluru!
Kharge says high command will take decision on leadership
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had met the AICC president on November 22 and it was speculated that D.K. Shivakumar would also meet him, but the meeting didnt happen
Terror case suspect among three inmates booked for using mobile phones in central prison
Cloudy skies brew slump for tea; Karnataka output falls to 5-year low
Musician Babuji Mahadev Naikodi passes away
In a boost to conservation, Centre rejects quarry proposals in Western Ghats
Shift govt. offices to Suvarna Soudha, demand activists
State govt. urged to demonstrate its commitment to ensuring meaningful decentralisation
Cash, Property, Cars: Karnataka BJP Alleges Horse-Trading Within Congress
The comments come as the Congress government completes two-and-a-half years in office, a point that has revived ongoing talk about a power-sharing arrangement.
White bandana, reflective sticker help Bengaluru police crack robbery case
Karnataka Minister G Parameshwara's Hint On 'Race' For Chief Minister Post in State
Karnataka's home minister G Parameswara has indicated that he, too, is in the race for the Chief Minister post in case there is a leadership change in the state.
Autorickshaw driver attempts self-immolation after an argument with traffic police in Chitradurga
AIUTUC calls for unity at mine workers convention in Sandur
The event was preceded by a rally from the APMC Yard to the convention venue
Yadgir farmers bring 27,647 ha under rabi cultivation as sowing resumes
The targeted area is 49,909 hectares for this farming season
Cybercrime police book bank staffer for credit card fraud
AIKS to protest in Delhi against Centres anti-farmer policies
Khandre directs capturing leopard in Tarikere, clearing encroachments on forestland
Candlelight vigil held to express concern over SC ruling on stray dogs
AIKS stages protest in Kalaburagi seeking urgent relief for farmers
Heavy rain has devastated both commercial and food crops across several districts, according to the district unit president of the sabha
BCU to teach foreign languages to medical, dental, nursing students of RGUHS
There is a huge demand for skilled doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals in the global healthcare sector
The State govt. has promised to recommend to the Centre to grant Scheduled Tribes status to Koli, Kabbaliga, Besta, Ambiga, Mogaveera
Vivekananda Memorial in Mysuru nearing completion
Congress leadership has to change but it may take some time, says Satish Jarkiholi
We are hopeful that the high command will clear the confusion, according to the Congress leader
'Nothing to say': Kharge on Karnataka power tussle; Cong chief says party high command will decide
Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah's tenure is under renewed speculation as the Congress government reaches its halfway mark. Party chief Mallikarjun Kharge stated the high command will decide on any leadership changes, while Siddaramaiah maintains the buzz is media-driven. Friction reportedly exists over a cabinet reshuffle, with supporters of Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar seeking clarity on leadership first.
Various factors driving young shepherds away from shepherding, say community elders
The desire among rural youth to live in the cities among urban amenities, erratic rain patterns, destruction of grazing land, diverting public spaces for non-farm activities cited among reasons
RPF Mysuru division to conduct firing practice
Congress high command will decide whatever it is: Kharge on CM change in Karnataka
Speculation about a chief minister change in Karnataka continues. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge stated the party high command will make the decision. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met with Kharge, acknowledging the high command's authority. The buzz around leadership change intensified after the government reached its halfway term. Ministers close to Siddaramaiah also met Kharge.
Fit India Movement: Mysuru to host more sporting events, says MP
Boseraju promises funds for Kannada Sahitya Parishat building in Kodagu
Kharge: Congress High Command Will Decide on Karnataka Leadership Change
Amid rising speculation over CM replacement, Kharge and Siddaramaiah signal they will abide by party decision
Travel operators urge Karnataka government to resume safaris as livelihoods hit
Safari operations in both tiger reserves were halted earlier this month following a series of tiger attacks in the H.D. Kote and Sargur regions.
A 29-year-old software engineer was allegedly defrauded of Rs 48 lakh by a self-proclaimed Ayurvedic healer and a medicine shop. The healer sold him costly herbal products, claiming they would cure his sexual health issues. The victim's health reportedly worsened after consuming the medicines, leading to kidney complications.
Bengaluru: Auto driver sets himself on fire during police routine check; tension in area
A 35-year-old auto driver in Chitradurga attempted self-immolation after alleging persistent harassment by traffic police during a drunk-driving check. He poured petrol on himself and set himself ablaze near Gandhi Circle, reportedly after being manhandled. Onlookers rescued him; he is in serious condition with 50 percent burns.
Couple dupes Hyderabad residents of Rs 23 crore, arrested in Karnataka
Hyderabad: A couple involved in an Rs 23 crore investment fraud in Hyderabad was arrested by the Karnataka police on November 20 and brought to Hyderabad on Saturday, November 22. The accused, identified as Vuppalapati Satish Kumar and Shilpa Banda were arrested by the Dharwad police on the Hubballi-Dharwad bypass and were handed over to Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Parameshwara Hints He Too Is In CM Race In Case Of Leadership Change In Karnataka
The senior Congress leader further said that AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge will decide on leadership change, if there is a need, after discussing with top party leader Rahul Gandhi, who is currently abroad
Parameshwara hints he too is in Chief Minister race in case of leadership change in Karnataka
Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has indicated his interest in the Chief Minister post should a leadership change occur. He downplayed party confusion, stating the high command has not discussed any changes. Parameshwara acknowledged long-standing demands for a Dalit CM. He clarified that any decision rests with AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge after consulting Rahul Gandhi.
Bengaluru ATM van robbery: Home Minister warns of dismissal of police personnel involved in crime
The Minister has issued strict instructions to senior police officers to remain vigilant and ensure discipline within the department.
Managers held hostage in Bengaluru: Police arrest 8 people posing as cops
Bengaluru police have rescued four BPO managers abducted by a gang posing as officers, including a serving police constable. The accused extorted Rs 8.90 lakh from the operations manager and demanded more cash. Acting on a complaint, police arrested eight individuals and seized two vehicles used in the kidnapping.
Video: BJP Mocks Congress Over Karnataka Tussle With Fortune-Telling Act
BJP workers in Karnataka have adopted a satirical approach to mock the Congress government over the power-sharing tussle in the state.
UFlex to invest over Rs 700 cr to expand packaging film capacity at Karnataka plant
NEW DELHI, Nov 23: Flexible packaging and solutions maker UFlex Ltd will invest over Rs 700 crore to expand its packaging film manufacturing line in Dharwad, Karnataka, according to a senior company official. The company will add 54,000 MTPA of new capacity at the plant, bringing its global packaging film capacity to 690,160 MTPA, up from 636,160 MTPA. We plan to invest over Rs 700 crore to expand our packaging film manufacturing line in Dharwad, Karnataka. This project will [] The post UFlex to invest over Rs 700 cr to expand packaging film capacity at Karnataka plant appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
UFlex to invest over Rs 700 crore to expand packaging film capacity at Karnataka plant
UFlex Ltd is investing over Rs 700 crore to expand its packaging film manufacturing in Dharwad, Karnataka. This expansion will add 54,000 MTPA capacity. The company is also progressing with major projects in Egypt, Mexico, and Noida. These new capacities are expected to contribute from FY27 and reach full impact in FY28.
Public transport in Bengaluru: Long way to go
BMTC runs one of the largest city bus fleets in India, and the Metro network is fast improving. Yet, many are reluctant to take these public transport systems, which are the only real solution to the city's infamous traffic congestion. Last mile connectivity - from homes and inside massive biz campuses - is a big issue. As are the absent/ awful footpaths.
Drunk Karnataka Auto Driver Sets Himself On Fire During Police Check
The incident took place at the Mahatma Gandhi circle when the police reportedly seized Thippeswamy's auto during the inspection.
Mandya district has lowest birth sex ratio in Karnataka
BENGALURU: Despite raising awareness among people and both the central and State governments promoting programmes to save the girl child, the Child Rights Index report released by the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR) on November 20 stated that the child sex ratio at birth (0-6 years) is still a concern in the state. The report is a study by S Madheswaran and BP Vani from the Institute for Social and Economic Change. In Karnataka, several districts have been identified with low sex ratios at birth, including Mandya, Bagalkot, Bidar, Chikkaballapur and Kalaburagi. These are districts with lower than 900 sex ratio at birth in one year or other. However, Indias SDG Index has a target sex ratio at birth of 950 females per 1,000 males. Mandya district has consistently shown a low sex ratio for four years 884 in 2020, 873 in 2021, 877 in 2022 and 887 in 2023. The sex ratio in the other districts in 2023 was 919 in Bagalkot, 920 in Bidar, 910 in Kalaburagi and 937 in Chikkaballapur. In 2022, the ratio in these districts stood at less than 900. The report calls it a matter of concern because the sex ratio at birth in the state was stable until 2011, and has declined to 916 during 2018-20. There is a drastic decline in child sex ratio from 975 in 1981 to 946 in 2001, it inched up to 948 in 2011 and declined again during 2018-20. Studies relating to sex ratio indicate that this could be due to a higher prevalence of sex selective abortions. It could also be due to imbalance in sex ratio at birth and excess female mortality (though male infants have higher rate of mortality than female infants) as compared to males post birth. There are various factors responsible for low female ratio, including gender-based differences in feeding practices, healthcare-seeking behaviour and difference in immunisation rates between boys and girls, states the report. The overall sex ratio is influenced by decreasing fertility rates and reduced family size, it said. Venkatesh, a member of KSCPCR in Mandya, said, It is difficult to trace these abortion centres unless someone from the same group reveals the truth. In one case, the centre was being operated in a jaggery manufacturing factory in a village. After doing an ultrasound, they referred these patients to various abortion centres. When we come across issues like female infanticide, we inspect the place and on finding evidence, we report to the police. However, the issue is still a matter of concern. We wouldnt want Mandya to be known as the centre for female infanticide. The practice exists even now, when parents want their first child to be a son or dont want a second girl child.
Karnataka ranks third in fish production: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah
BENGALURU: Karnataka now ranks third in the country in fish production. Indias share of global fish production is about 7.7% and ranks fourth in exports, said Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday. Speaking at Matsya Mela 2025 to mark World Fisheries Day here, he said fisheries is a crucial industry that ensures food security, nutrition and livelihoods for lakhs of families. Karnataka, with its 32-km coastline and 5.5 lakh hectares of inland water resources, stands third in the country in fish production. The sector supports nearly 10 lakh people in the state, the CM said. Reiterating the governments commitment to the sector, he said the annual diesel quota for mechanised fishing boats has been increased from 1.5 lakh kilolitres to 2 lakh kilolitres. Traditional boats are being given industrial kerosene at a subsidised price of Rs 35 per litre. Siddaramaiah said financial aid for fishermen during the annual fishing ban has been increased from Rs 1,500 to Rs 3,000. Work on 10,000 houses for fishermen has begun. Deputy CM DK Shivakumar said the government had filled more than 10,000 lakes with water across the state, enabling inland fishery. Small lakes will be handed over to societies, while larger ones will be auctioned, he said. Fisheries Minister Mankal Vaidya said that in view of the deaths of 45 fishermen this year, the government will distribute life jackets. Compensation for accidental deaths has been increased to Rs 10 lakh and will be released within 24 hours, he added.
Karnataka educationists demand halt to school mergers; urge CM to review policy and fill vacancies
BENGALURU: Dalit Sangharsha Samiti and Jagruta Nagarikaru Karnataka Vedike organised a round table meeting of educationists, activists and retired professors on Saturday, to discuss recent decisions taken by the Department of School Education and Literacy. They announced the formation of a separate committee and submitted certain recommendations to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Shripadh Bhat, educationist, explained, One of our recommendations includes changing Minister for School Education and Literacy Madhu Bangarappa. MLAs with deep insight and commitment to the public education system should be appointed ministers. The recommendations of the State Education Policy (SEP) formulated by the Karnataka State Education Policy Commission should be made public and reviewed. Steps should be taken to fill all vacant posts, from pre-primary to pre-university education, as soon as possible. No new order should be issued regarding education policies until the SEP is implemented. No schools should be merged with Karnataka Public Schools etc. Meanwhile, Dr Niranjanaradhya, education expert, said, Karnataka is in 7th position in India in terms of shutting down schools. The state has closed 6.46 per cent of government schools during various party regimes. If the government closes more than 25,600 schools, it will touch 52 per cent. He highlighted some shocking figures on the status of schools. In 2010-11, there were 45,677 elementary schools in Karnataka. Now, there are 41,905 elementary schools. Enrolment rate of children in government schools in 2010-11 was 54.5 lakh, but has reduced to 23 lakh. However, the enrolment rate of children in private schools was 28.76lakh in 2010-11, which has now increased to 48.47lakh. Education is a political issue now. They have violated Article 21A by shutting down schools within one kilometre range in every village, depriving children of their Right to Education, Niranjanaradhya stated. Last week, TNIE reported that 19 government schools of various taluks of Chikkaballapur would be merged into one KPS, and seven schools in Channapatna would be merged to start another KPS. The documents also stated that TCs must be given to students, and benches, desks and other properties moved to the new school. Teachers will be also deputed to the new KPS.
Raipur Diary: : Chhattisgarh forest department tops All-India Forest Sports Meet for 13th year
State leads in all-India Forest Sports Meet For the 13th consecutive year, the Chhattisgarh forest department maintained its supremacy at the All India Forest Sports Meet held in Dehradun. The forest department won the overall Championship trophy. The states indomitable 253-member team led by APCCF Shalini Raina with the sterling spirit secured exceptional results with 74 gold medals and 578 Championship points to stand at Number-1 position in India. Kerala (31 Gold, 357 points) and Karnataka (25 Gold, 326 points) secured 2nd and 3rd places. Such a victory for the forest department team is far more than a sporting milestone, setting new benchmarks of excellence at the national level. Pandum Cafe: A coffee shop with a difference A unique Pandum Cafe in Bastar is not merely a coffee shop but a significant plan to rehabilitate surrendered Maoist cadres and victims of Naxal violence. Launched at the divisional headquarters in Jagdalpur, it provides to those who once picked up guns and engaged violence with sustainable livelihoods. CM Vishnu Deo Sai interacted with the hired enthusiastic team who began a new chapter of hope and reintegration after returning to the social mainstream. As a part of the state governments rehabilitation initiative, the move signifies an innovative effort reflecting a potent journey from conflict to cooperation. Youths here have had training. Aadhaar-enabled attendance from Dec 1 In an intended push towards ensuring transparency, punctuality and administrative efficiency, the state decided to roll-out mandatory Aadhaar-enabled Biometric Attendance System (AEBAS) across all departments operating from the state secretariat complex. The new practice will start from December 1. All employees can register their IN/OUT attendance on their smartphones using Aadhaar-enabled facial verification. This mobile-based system is designed to offer convenience while maintaining biometric integrity. And the wall-mounted, thumb-based biometric devices have been installed at all major entry points of the Secretariat. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com
Father, friend booked under POCSO for rape of minor girl in Karnataka's Koppal district
KOPPAL: A minor girl in Koppal district has accused her own father of facilitating her repeated sexual assault by his friend. A case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act has been registered, and both accused are currently absconding. The incident, which occurred in December of last year, came to light only recently after the survivor attempted to take her own life. According to the police complaint, the girl's mother saved her and, upon inquiry, learned the horrific truth. The survivor from Gangavathi stated in her complaint that her father, an alcoholic, forcibly took her to his friend's house in Gundamma Camp on December 8, 2023. She was held there until December 13. The complaint alleges that on the night of December 11, the father's friend raped her. When the girl mustered the courage to tell her father the next day, he not only dismissed her trauma but allegedly offered to arrange a marriage with the perpetrator. He further threatened to kill her mother if she disclosed the assault to anyone. I had no other choice but to keep quiet, the girl stated in her complaint. The situation became unbearable, leading to her suicide attempt two days ago. Following her mother's advice, she filed a formal complaint at the Gangavathi police station. Police have confirmed that a POCSO case has been registered and an investigation is underway to locate and apprehend the two accused.
VIJAYAPURA: For Deputy Superintendent of Police Basavaraj Yeligar, every spare minute is an opportunity to immerse himself in the world of Vachanas, the 12th-century poetic compositions that form the foundation of the Lingayat spiritual tradition. Whether travelling from his Solapur Road office to the Deputy Commissioners office or attending meetings at the Zilla Panchayat, Yeligar uses his short commute time to continue his translation work. What may seem like a rushed 10-minute drive to others becomes a brief yet valuable window for him to engage in what he truly loves: bringing the wisdom of Basaveshwara and other saints to readers through English translations. Finding time during duty hours is difficult. So, whenever I am travelling or waiting, I try to use that time productively. Translating Vachanas gives me immense joy, he says. At 54, Yeligar has already earned recognition beyond his policing career. His recently released book, My Me is Thee , which contains English translations of 959 Vachanas of Basaveshwara, has gone into print three times, with nearly 3,000 copies already in circulation. Born in Naragund in Gadag district, Yeligar completed his primary schooling in his hometown before moving to Mudhol in Bagalkot district for his SSLC. He later pursued a Bachelors degree in Arts from Dharwad. He started his career as a First Division Clerk at the Agriculture College in Dharwad. After clearing the PSI exam, he joined the police force. Today, he serves as the DSP of Vijayapura. Yeligar traces his writing skills to his childhood. His father used to ask Basavaraj to help him with drafting land records or financial transaction documents for villagers. I was developing writing habits from my school days. It later played a major role in shaping my literary work, he recalls. His family used to visit the Allamaprabhu Mutt in Naragund. The Mutt served as a centre for the study of Vachanas, secular principles, and harmony among communities. The Mutt played a crucial role in shaping my affinity toward Vachanas and nurturing my secular outlook. Many rituals were performed by Muslims, and people of different communities came together, he says. Yeligar tried translating the couplets of Shishunal Sharif, a revered saint-poet of North Karnataka, while serving at Chikodi in Belagavi district. He later translated a general non-fiction work titled, Deluge of Drought Who is Responsible? , which explored Karnatakas recurring cycles of droughts and floods. In 2021, Yeligar began translating the Vachanas of Basaveshwara into English. It took him nearly four years to complete the 808-page volume. He had previously read several English translations of Vachanas, but felt something lacking in them. I never felt satisfied with the translations I read. They did not capture the sacredness and philosophical richness of Basavannas words. I wanted to fill that gap, he says. Understanding old Kannada was no easy task, as Vachanas often contain layers of symbolism, analogy, and philosophical depth. To achieve accuracy, Yeligar consulted several seers, scholars, and experts in historical Kannada literature. He also studied books by the late scholar M M Kalburgi and other eminent researchers. Yeligar has now undertaken the translation of Vachanas written by the saint-poet Akkamahadevi. He has selected around 450 Vachanas, of which he has already translated about 250. He plans to complete it by March next year and release the book at Uutadi village in Shivamogga district, the birthplace of Akkamahadevi. He is also translating an Islamic book from English to Kannada. The book, titled Would You Like to Know Something About Islam , written by Mohammed Ahmed, was given to him by Islamic cleric Sayed Tanveer Hashmi. This is the first time I am translating a book from English to Kannada. I hope to complete it within a month, he says. Yeligar says spirituality is essential for a stress-free life. His deep connection to spiritual thought, especially through Vachanas, has helped him navigate the challenges of policing. Spirituality brings peace, clarity, and emotional balance. In my personal and professional life, it has helped me immensely, he says.
BENGALURU: Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath president Dr B L Shankar said playwright Dr Nataraj Thalaghattapuras effort to bring his Kannada play Banna Mecchidavaru to wider audiences through its English version, Admirers of Colour and Hindi translation Rangon Ke Upasak will help popularise the lives of artist Svetoslav Roerich and actor Devika Rani globally. He was speaking at the release of the two books at Bharath Education Society, Jayanagar, on Saturday. The play depicts the struggles faced by Roerich and Devika Rani in the final years of their lives. The English translation is by Dr Rekha Kawshik P R, and the Hindi version by Prof Shakira Khanum. Senior journalist and author Raghunatha Cha Ha said Natarajs plays capture the complexities of contemporary life, and his stories mirror the concerns of the present generation. Three other books by Nataraj, the plays Bayala Roopa and Bogase Thumba Mannu, and the short-story collection Midinagaragala Naduve, were also released on the occasion. residing over the function, Jnanapeetha awardee Dr Chandrashekar Kambar lauded the playwrights work. Nataraj said the audience response to his plays continues to inspire him to write.
Abhinav Tejrana: The Delhi boy ignored by DDCA is making waves for Goa
The 24-year-old top-order batter Abhinav Tejrana has set the Ranji Trophy on fire. Batting for Goa at No. 3, the Delhi-born cricketer has amassed 651 runs in eight innings, including a double century on first-class debut against Chandigarh. He has also smashed two centuries against Punjab and Saurashtra, and not to forget his match-saving unbeaten 73 against Karnataka.
Siddaramaiah Meets Kharge, Dismisses Karnataka Leadership Change Speculation
Amid an ongoing power tussle in the ruling Congress, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday called on party president Mallikarjun Kharge at his residence here, and dismissed speculation of a leadership change in the state.
Only Media Speculation: Siddaramaiah Meets Kharge, Dismisses Karnataka Leadership Change Talk
Amid escalating Congress infighting, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, insisting rumours of a Karnataka leadership change are unfounded.
Cyclone in Bay of Bengal: A low-pressure area has formed over the Bay of Bengal and is expected to intensify into a depression by November 24. The system may further strengthen over the southwest Bay of Bengal in the subsequent 48 hours. Heavy rainfall is forecast for Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, coastal Karnataka and Lakshadweep.
Pralhad Joshi rules out possibility of BJP assuming power in state
Belagavi prepares for winter session as maintenance work progresses
Let the state govt buy maize using the revolving fund, says Bommai
Students to showcase skills at state-level Prachya Pragne in Gadag
Shivakumar seeking support from jailed MLAs, claims Joshi
HUBBALLI, Nov 22: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi on Saturday alleged that horse trading of Congress MLAs is underway in Karnataka amid a power struggle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar. Joshi claimed that Shivakumars recent visit to jailed MLAs Vinay Kulkarni and KC Veerendra (Puppy) in Bengaluru Central Prison was part of an effort to secure their support. He said, There is clear infighting in Congress. Siddaramaiah is unwilling to step down as CM, while Shivakumar is [] The post Shivakumar seeking support from jailed MLAs, claims Joshi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Yellow Line boarding crosses 1L mark; trains cover 470 km/day in Bengaluru
Man kills brother with help of 2 pals, arrested in Bengaluru
Special investigation team to probe massive lapses in Karnataka land acquisition cases
FIR registered against officials and seers for illegal land transfer
Karnataka moves to let registrars scrap fake registrations
Farmers in Haveri fall victim to PM-Kisan scheme scam
Modern aspirations, climate change pushing rural youth away from shepherding: Community leaders
Rahul Gandhi to lay foundation for Jeans Park soon: Minister MB Patil
What is the Mekedatu dam project dispute? | Explained
What is the history of the proposed project? How has the Tamil Nadu government reacted?
Jan Dhan accounts in Madhya Pradesh used to circulate cyber-fraud money; three held
BHOPAL: Once meant to bank the unbanked, zero balance bank accounts in Madhya Pradesh created under the PM Jan Dhan Scheme have now transformed into mule accounts for cyber fraudsters. Three individuals have been arrested so far. As many as seven bank accounts have been misused by fraudsters who have parked funds looted from crimes committed in other states. Five of these bank accounts are Jan Dhan accounts, including one account of a deceased person. How did the fraud surface? Recently, a daily wage labourer Bisram Ivne (40) approached the authorities, stating that transactions of around Rs 2 crore were carried out through his Jan Dhan account since June 2025. He came to know about it when he went to the bank to update his KYC details. We initiated a focussed investigation in the matter by the district polices cyber cell and the subsequent probe revealed transactions of around Rs 1.5 crore in the account since June, Betul district police superintendent Virendra Jain told TNIE on Saturday. Subsequent police probes, particularly based on some similar complaints, led the cops to six more accounts, four of which were Jan Dhan accounts in which transactions spanning between Rs 47.44 lakh and Rs 2.24 crore were detected, which brought the total sum to more than Rs 9.84 crore. Surprisingly, one of the Jan Dhan accounts in which suspicious monetary transactions were detected, was held by one Rajendra Varde, who is no longer alive. Another account with suspicious transactions was a student scholarship account held by 20-year-old college student Narmada Ivne. As the probe progressed it was found that the Rs 9.84 crore plus sum was parked in these accounts, which were being used as mule accounts. The sum actually represented the proceeds of cyber fraud cases done in other states, including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Delhi and Haryana, SP Jain said. The money pertained to proceeds of cyber-crime, including cryptocurrency investment fraud, fake customer service centre related fraud and cyber phishing. Accused so far Further investigations took the Betul district polices multiple teams to two hideouts in Indore, from where three men have so far been arrested in the case. The arrested men include Raja alias Ayush Chauhan (28), who hails from Savligarh (Betul), his brother-in-law Ankit Rajput (32) and Narendra Singh Rajput (42). As many as 15 cell-phones, 21 ATM cards, Rs 28,000 cash and 11 bank passbooks of nationalized and private banks have been seized from the arrested men. The seizure has revealed that more than 20 more bank accounts were being used to park and circulate the cyber fraud money in different parts of Madhya Pradesh. Many of those accounts may well be Jan Dhan accounts, the SP-Betul said. Investigations have revealed the involvement of an ad hoc employee of one of the banks, who helped the inter-state gang in first getting access to the accounts, then changing the registered mobile phone number of each of the accounts, get new ATM cards issued and finally get access to internet-mobile banking for each account, particularly to get control of account whose holder had died. But the arrested trio is just one layer of the multi-layered racket, whose real players (backward and forward linkages of the racket) were operating from other states.
Four Karnataka men duped of 4.61cr in Vadodara gold scam
Bihar polls, Chhath Puja boost South Western Railways revenue by 23%
Eight, including constable, arrested for abducting CEO of BPO for ransom
